The
Old Man... A reflection on abandonment, compassion, and the power of presence
Recently
we read in the newspapers that a man from Malad, Mumbai, who was carrying a pot
of rum, was abandoned by his grandmother near a dustbin in Goregaon, as his
grandmother was suffering from cancer and was unable to take care of him. The
son was caught and action was taken with the intervention of the police.
Hearing
this story brings tears to my eyes and makes me hate that son.
This
incident shook our hearts. It is not just a story of neglect - it is a
reflection of a broken system, broken families and the painful loneliness that
many of our elderly suffer in their final years. The image of that helpless old
man thrown away like garbage left an impression of sadness and anger in our
minds. How can one abandon those who raised us, loved us and sacrificed their
own comfort for our future? It is easy to feel hatred towards the son in that
story. But beyond that initial feeling, perhaps we should also ask ourselves
what kind of society we are creating, where stories like this are constantly
unfolding. Are we so busy with our lives that we have forgotten the basic
values of gratitude, care and responsibility?
Against
this grim backdrop, something very meaningful happened.
On
Sunday, June 29, the ECHO Foundation team visited an old age home on
Vajreshwari Road, about 40 kilometres from Mumbai. It was our first visit in a
long time, and it could not have come at a more relevant time. The old age home
is a humble but warm place, home to about 35 elderly persons – each with a
world of stories within them.
Some
of the elderly had come there voluntarily. Perhaps they wanted peace in their
old age, or perhaps they wanted to avoid being a burden on their family. But
one truth stood out clearly: no parent ever wishes bad for their children. No
matter how difficult life is, parents’ hearts beat with love, care and silent
blessings for their children.
When
we arrived, their faces lit up – not just because of the food, snacks, and
cakes we brought – but because someone had come to listen to them. Someone had
come to see them, sit with them, laugh with them. In a world where they are
often invisible, we made them feel seen, heard, and respected.
Amit
Poipkar’s madam had arranged for grains (rice, lentils, oil, flour), and our
dedicated volunteers – Amit, Manuel, Sandeep, Ashok and Mohan – joined hands to
spread joy. Together, we spoke for hours with residents, listening to their
stories of youth, struggle, love and loss. Their smiles were priceless; their
eyes filled with joy that no material thing can bring.
These
are the forgotten heroes – people who raised families, built homes, held jobs
and quietly contributed to society. Now they sit quietly in corners, cherishing
memories and hoping someone will remember them.
This
experience left a deep mark on our hearts. It reminded us that service is not
just charity – it is humanity. It means giving people what they deserve:
respect, love and time.
Caring
for those who once cared for us.
Raising
our voices when we see injustice against the elderly.
Making
time to visit an old age home or call our elders, even if it is just once a
month.
Raising
awareness and creating a culture where the elderly are respected and protected,
not abandoned.
We
should not wait for another news to shake our conscience. Let us act now, with
compassion, courage, and love.
Because
one day we too will grow old. And when that day comes, we would like someone to
remember us – not with pity, but with respect and love.
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